Eco-Sins: Green Dry Cleaning?

Reader Contribution by Staff
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It’s Wednesday, and that means it’s discount day at the dry cleaners. I’m in desperate need for clean work pants, but have avoided taking them into the cleaners because of all the startling information I’m learning about dry cleaning. I’m also a little disgusted by the fact that dry cleaned clothes aren’t really clean…they’re just pumped full of chemicals and then pressed to toxic perfection.

First, I know that dry cleaning is a “necessary evil” to most people. But is it actually necessary? Growing up, my mother always ironed my dad’s shirts and pants–not only was this eco-friendly, but it was wallet-friendly. Unfortunately, much to my mom’s (and my old roommate, Rachelle’s) dismay, I never fully grasped the concept of ironing, especially when it comes to putting that crisp line into pants. I’m not good at it. I always ask someone else to do it for me (sorry, Rachelle!) or show me how…again and again.

But now that I’m making a better effort at greening my life (and keeping money in my wallet!), I’m reconsidering that ironing board. Here are a few great tips for avoiding the dry cleaners and keeping chemicals off your skin. Because if I’m making this much of an effort to use natural beauty products and home cleaning supplies, I might as well not dilute my efforts by putting chemical-fresh clothing on my body–discount or no discount.

How do you deal with the dry cleaning dilemma? What are you eco-sins? Leave me a comment and let me know!

  • Published on Oct 8, 2008
Tagged with: Reader Contributions
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